Tectorial Membrane of Cervical Vertebral Column
Membrana tectoria columnae vertebralis cervicalis
Read moreStructure
The tectorial membrane is a strong fibrous band that extends from the basilar part of the occipital bone to the posterior surface of the bodies of the second and third cervical vertebrae. The fibers of the tectorial membrane are arranged in an array of parallel collagen fibers, which have spindle cell fibrocytes. The number of elastic fibers increase as the tectorial membrane attaches to the cranium.
Anatomical Relations
The tectorial membrane is a superior continuation of the posterior longitudinal ligament and is composed of superficial and deep layers. Both of these layers have an inferior attachment to the posterior surface of the vertebral bodies of the second and third cervical vertebrae. Both layers expand as they move up and out, covering the dens and its surrounding ligaments. Superiorly, the superficial layer becomes broader and ascends to the basilar part of the occipital bone, blending with the dura mater here.
The deep layer also projects superiorly, with a strong central segment attaching to the foramen magnum. The lateral segments blend with the atlantooccipital joint capsules. The cruciate ligament of atlas is anteriorly related to the tectorial membrane but is not connected due to the presence of a thin sheet of loose areolar tissue.
Function
The tectorial membrane steady’s the cranium during flexion and extension of the neck. Additionally, it reduces any posterior movement of the dens.
